Al Pacino and Robert De Niro met in the late 1960s when they were both just starting out as performers.
They’ve been friends ever since, and their friendship defies all Hollywood tropes about love and friendship not enduring.
Despite the fact that they have both been through a lot, these two actors continue to be each other’s support and inspiration.
Pacino and De Niro both grew up in the 1940s in New York. They were both the children of divorced parents, went to acting school together, and idolized the same outstanding performers such as Marlon Brando and James Dean.
Later in their careers, they both began with major roles in “gangster” films: Al Pacino’s first role was Michael Corleone in The Godfather (1972), while Robert De Niro’s first role was John “Johnny Boy” Civello in Mean Streets (1973).
During Pacino and De Niro’s 50-year friendship, there were times when they were both up for the same parts, such as Michael Corleone in The Godfather. However, it never converted the two friends into adversaries.
They continue to assist and encourage one another, and they have a great understanding of one another.